Cooking and Culture in the Classroom

Immerse yourself in the culture of Italy through culinary experiences in the Italian 397, Italian Food in Practice: A Hands-on Cultural History. The kitchen becomes a classroom as students learn Italian by cooking and communicating in the language in this seminar.

French and Italian

French is spoken in more than 30 countries around the world. Italian is the native language of 59 million people in the European Union. Whether you love the language or have an interest in European and Francophone cultures, studying French or Italian at Colby will open a world of opportunity.

Students majoring in French and Francophone studies take courses in language, literature, linguistics, and culture—with all courses conducted in French. Classes are small, allowing for individual attention and close collaboration with your peers and professors. Extend your classroom experience by joining the French Club, dining with your classmates at the French table, and studying abroad, a requirement for all French majors.

The minor in Italian studies develops students’ language skills and introduces them to life and culture in Italy. Courses cover topics from the Middle Ages and Renaissance to the modern and contemporary Italian state. Enhance your language skills through study abroad, expand your culinary experience with advanced courses on Italian cuisine, and participate in department-sponsored events including film screenings, discussions, and off-campus excursions.